ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY FOR ADULT HIV-INFECTED PATIENTS - RECOMMENDATIONS FROM A STATE-OF-THE-ART CONFERENCE

This document summarizes recommendations from a state-of-the-art confe rence convened to evaluate the role of nucleoside analogue reverse tra nscriptase inhibitors in the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Data from controlled clinical trials of zidovudine, didanosine, and zalcitabine were reviewed by an expert panel, which th en formulated guidelines to assist clinicians and HIV-infected patient s in the use of these agents. Recommendations were framed in the conte xt of clinical scenarios for patients with asymptomatic HIV infection who have not had prior antiretroviral therapy; those with signs and sy mptoms of HIV-related disease who have not received prior therapy; cli nically stable patients who are tolerating initial zidovudine therapy; patients experiencing clinical progression while on zidovudine therap y; and those who are intolerant of antiretroviral therapy. The panel c oncluded that physicians need to integrate up-to-date scientific knowl edge with other relevant needs to improve the care of HIV-infected pat ients.